What Can You Do With an Associate Accounting Degree? 6 Jobs to Consider

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If you’re thinking about pursuing a career in accounting or finance, an associate degree in accounting might be your best next step. The University of Cincinnati’s fully online, two-year Associate of Applied Business (AAB) in Accounting Technology program can equip you with a solid foundation in accounting principles, financial analysis, bookkeeping, and more.

Key Takeaways

Various Career Opportunities: An associate degree in accounting can lead to entry-level roles like bookkeeper, accounting clerk, and tax preparer—offering opportunities in industries ranging from small businesses to government agencies.
Flexible and Affordable Path: Earning an associate degree is a cost-effective way to start your accounting career, especially with online programs designed to balance education with work and personal responsibilities.
Stepping Stone for Growth: While not equivalent to a bachelor’s degree, an associate degree provides a strong foundation to enter the field and can pave the way for further education and advanced career options.

What Can You Do With an Accounting Degree?

An associate degree in accounting can open doors for a range of entry-level, high-demand career paths that are crucial for most industries, including public accounting firms, small businesses, corporations, non-profits, and government agencies. Here are just a few examples of jobs for accounting majors you can pursue with an associate degree.

#1 – Bookkeeper

Bookkeepers are responsible for maintaining comprehensive financial records of all purchases and sales a business conducts. Their day-to-day tasks may include recording financial transactions, reconciling accounts, producing invoices, and preparing financial reports. Bookkeepers’ meticulous records enable accountants to do their jobs of analyzing financial data.

#2 – Accounting Clerk

Accounting clerks provide vital support to accounting departments through tasks such as invoice processing, data entry, record keeping, basic financial analysis, and more. Their accuracy and organization are essential to the smooth operation of the department and overall organization.

#3 – Payroll Clerk

Payroll clerks focus on the salary functions of accounting. They are responsible for all tasks involved in processing payroll, such as collecting timesheets and ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time.

#4 – Tax Preparer

Tax preparers help individuals and businesses prepare and file their tax returns. Their expertise in navigating the process and gives clients confidence that they are fulfilling their tax obligations efficiently and legally

#5 – Accounts Payable/Receivable Clerk

Accounts payable and accounts receivable clerks are responsible for processing payments and invoices, tracking expenses, and maintaining well-organized financial documents related to vendor and customer accounts.

#6 – Auditing Administrator

Audit associates typically work for accounting firms or government agencies, performing audits of financial statements to ensure compliance with accounting standards and regulations.

Keep in mind that job titles and responsibilities can vary depending on the company and industry – it’s worth doing some research to find out which accounting career would be the best fit for you.

Is a Two-Year Accounting Degree Worth It?

Whether you seek to pursue a career in one of the previously mentioned roles, or eventually hope to advance your education with the aim of becoming a certified public accountant or entering other financial roles, a two-year accounting degree is a great first step to entering the financial world.

Take a Grad’s Word for It

Abby, a graduate of UC’s online accounting program, decided to make a career shift from veterinary medicine to accounting. To supplement her career goals and boost marketability, she sought to pursue an accounting education. Abby chose the University of Cincinnati’s online Associate of Applied Business In Accounting Technology program because the flexible format allowed her to balance school with work and other responsibilities. “I am happy with my decision to pursue this degree. The courses have broadened my knowledge base and supported my professional growth.” Read more about Abby’s experience here.

Strong Job Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for professionals in the accounting field is robust. Over 184,000 openings for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks are projected each year over the decade.

Industry Resilience

Patty Goedl, the program coordinator, underscores the stability of working in the accounting field because there are always opportunities for people with the right education and experience to find work in finance roles. “Every business — even nonprofits — has some sort of accounting department or function because they all have to take in and spend money.”

Continue Your Studies and Earn More

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states the median annual salary for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerk positions is about $47,440, and graduates don’t have to stop there. Upon completing your associate accounting degree, furthering your education and certifications, such as a bachelor’s degree, can help you increase your job prospects and potential earnings in the long run.

It’s important to note that graduates interested in becoming Certified Public Accountants (CPA) will need to continue their education after earning their associate degree in accounting, as most states require 150 semester college credits with an earned bachelor’s degree. Learn more about how to become a CPA.

Can I Afford It?

While funding your college education is a big commitment, UC Online offers several ways to make the Associate of Applied Business in Accounting Technology program fit within your budget.

Work While You Learn: Our flexible online scheduling allows students to continue working full-time while earning their degree This means you won’t have to sacrifice your income while investing in your education.

University Business Partner Scholarships: UC Online has partnered with hundreds of companies to offer tuition scholarships to employees, spouses, and dependents. See if your place of employment is on the list!

Donor-Funded Scholarships: Students in the Associate of Applied Business in Accounting Technology program are eligible to apply for a number of annual donor-based scholarships with just one application. Learn more about donor-based scholarships.

Free Textbook by Program Coordinator: Patty Goedl, the program coordinator and professor for the accounting program, understands the financial strain that paying for textbooks can place on students, so she decided to create her own. “I look at this resource as a gift to every student who uses it,” Goedl said. Read more about Goedl’s free, digital textbook that has saved approximately 500 students more than $100,000 total.

Understanding Tuition and Financial Aid: Our dedicated support team is here to help you from the moment you decide to apply all the way to graduation, and that includes navigating financial aid information. To start, view our guides to approximating your term bill and understanding financial aid.

The University of Cincinnati Online Advantage

Flexibility: All courses are completed entirely online, allowing you to earn your degree without sacrificing your work and home responsibilities. The self-paced nature of the program means you can access course material on your own time. Plus, the accounting program has six start dates per year, giving you the opportunity to begin when it’s most convenient for you.
Workplace Readiness: The program prepares graduates with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to excel in the workplace. The curriculum includes courses emphasizing managerial accounting, payroll, auditing, not-for-profit accounting, and more.
Support From Start to Finish: UC Online’s dedicated support team guides students every step of the way, ensuring you reach your full potential throughout your educational journey.
Credential Opportunities: Our online accounting program offers students the opportunity to earn two nationally recognized micro-credentials through our program at no additional cost, allowing you to stand out among other job candidates. The Intuit Certified QuickBooks User credential allows students to validate their proficiency in Intuit QuickBooks. The Intuit Certified Bookkeeping Professional credential certifies that students have the skills that meet the industry’s bookkeeping standards.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Our Enrollment Services Advisors are just an email or phone call away – they can help answer your questions about the Associate of Applied Business in Accounting Technology program and guide you through the application process. You can reach us at [email protected] or 833-556-7900.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it worth getting an associate’s in accounting?

Yes, earning an associate’s in accounting is a worthwhile investment. It provides a solid foundation in accounting principles and prepares you for in-demand entry-level roles like bookkeeping, payroll, and accounting clerk positions—all while offering a faster, more affordable path into the financial industry compared to a four-year degree.

How can I work in accounting without an accounting degree?

You may be able to start in accounting roles—such as bookkeeping or administrative support—without a degree, but long-term career growth in the field will be challenging. Pursuing an online associate’s in accounting while you work can help you quickly gain the education and credentials needed to secure higher-paying positions and advance your career.

Is an associate’s in accounting the same as a bachelor’s degree?

No, an associate’s in accounting is not the same as a bachelor’s degree in accounting. However, an associate’s is an excellent way to enter the accounting industry quickly and affordably—offering opportunities for roles like tax preparer or accounts payable/receivable clerk. It can also serve as a stepping stone if you choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree later.